CNN host Abby Phillip’s handling of fitness personality Jillian Michaels sparked a controversy, but her measured approach provides a valuable blueprint for cable news hosts. Phillip explained that she doesn’t like to talk negatively about guests, even when they disagree with her, because it’s not good for them. Instead, she respects their right to share their perspective, regardless of how frustrating it might be.
Phillip’s approach is crucial in today’s media landscape, where debates often devolve into shouting matches and genuine engagement is replaced with cheap theatrics. A cable news host should provide a forum for discussion while allowing the audience to judge credibility themselves. This means not letting inaccuracies or damaging narratives go unchecked but maintaining standards of accuracy and decency.
Phillip gave Michaels room to share her perspective, challenging falsehoods in real-time. She recognized that people are smart enough to hear questionable comments and draw their own conclusions. This emphasis on exchange of ideas is key to preserving the integrity of a show without making it personal.
The takeaway from Phillip’s handling of Michaels is clear: respect doesn’t mean silence in the face of inaccuracies, but also not demeaning those who disagree with you. By adopting this mindset, cable news hosts can better serve their audiences and create a more civil national conversation.
Source: https://barrettmedia.com/2025/08/25/how-abby-phillip-handled-jillian-michaels-should-be-a-model-for-cable-news-hosts